Article September 23, 2013 Issue

'Nothingizing' the human drama

Sally House Heinsohn

A few years ago I was working as one of numerous computer graphics operators in a large Wall Street firm. Although we were low on the corporate totem pole, the materials we created were an integral part of consummating deals involving millions of dollars; consequently the pressure on us was enormous.

Instead of being supportive, the management was often critical and hostile toward me. I felt I was being harassed. This led to mistakes in my work, and generated even more fear. It became a vicious cycle. Although I frequently prayed about the situation on my days off, by the time I’d arrive back at work, the anxiety would have always returned.

I thought I was alone in my misery until one day I was surprised to learn that some of my colleagues felt so harassed and anxious on the job that they were actually going to medical doctors, chiropractors, and psychotherapists to help them deal with the stress! This enabled me to see the impersonal nature of the problem.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

A talent we all possess